Manchester United has officially completed their initial summer transfer as Alvaro Fernandez leaves the club to join Benfica in Portugal on a permanent basis.
Fernandez, who had been on loan to Benfica since January after a spell at Granada, made a lasting impression during his time in Portugal.
With 11 league appearances under his belt, the 21-year-old managed to score one goal and provide one assist, drawing the attention of Benfica’s management.
After a successful loan period, Benfica has decided to permanently sign Fernandez, as confirmed by the club on their official website.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Benfica has paid €6 million for the talented left-back’s services.
🚨🦅 Benfica confirm Álvaro Fernández joining the club on permanent deal from Man United.
€6m to Man United plus buy back clause, matching rights and also sell-on clause. https://t.co/3avzoz7pK8 pic.twitter.com/NVceJdyW26
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 26, 2024
The agreement also includes a buy-back clause for Manchester United, allowing the club the option to bring Fernandez back in the future.
Furthermore, United has secured a sell-on clause, potentially benefiting financially from any future transfers involving Fernandez.
Fernandez initially joined Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2020 but was mostly out on loan during his time at the club.
His departure comes shortly after United’s FA Cup victory at Wembley Stadium, where they defeated rivals Manchester City 2-1.
The future of Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, remains uncertain despite recent successes in the FA Cup and other trophies under his guidance.
INEOS, the club’s new owners, are expected to make a decision regarding ten Hag’s future in the coming week.
